Applying Topical Medications To Your Cat

October 13th, 2008 | Article by Giovanni Di Nardi | Pets and Animals | Print this article!

Article about: applying medication to your pet, cats, routine pet care, topical medications for pets

Most cats generally dislike having any type of topical medication applied.   Most topical medications are used for flea treatments, but others may have to be applied to the inner ear, or other areas of your cats body.  Some cats will fight you tooth and claw to avoid these treatments.

When we apply topical solutions to cats, they sometimes feel violated and will then shy away from us.  We don’t ever want our feline friends to lose their trust in us, so here is a few tips to help give the topical medications without negative repercussions.

Don’t let your kitty associate a certain holding technique with the application of your medicine.  Cats are very smart and will soon know when your about to hold them for affection, or for applying a medication.

Sometimes it may be helpful to have another person assist you.  Make sure it is someone your cat is familiar with, so they won’t be fearful of both the person and the medication.  You can have one person hold the cat, and the other person actually apply the medication.  Always talk softly to reassure your cat that your intentions are good.

Always have your medication ready.  Nothing is more frustrating than to have the cat in position and then have to open the medication.  In just these few seconds your cats behavior can change drastically and mean the difference between success and failure.   Be sure to have the medication open and ready before you attempt to apply it.

Never yell or show your frustration when attempting to apply the medication.  Cats are very sensitive to your moods, and any type of displeasure on your part will only fuel your cats aversion to be medicated.

If your cat repels all your attempts at medicating it, you may have to use a towel.  If you carefully wrap a towel around your cat so that it covers their paws and restricts their movement, it can help you apply the medication.  This method can also be used if you have to administer an oral medication like a pill.  Just be sure to leave the area exposed where the medication is to be applied.

A word of caution when applying topical medications for flea treatments.  Some cats have severe allergic reactions to flea treatments, so be sure to check with your veterinarian for advice on choosing a medication.  “Frontline,” is a popular brand of flea treatment that is relatively safe and widely used.

Always be vigilant after treating your pet with any medication.  If your dog or cat becomes lethargic, vomits or refuses to eat, contact your veterinarian immediately.  Remember to schedule routine visits with your veterinarian to insure the health of your pet.  A healthy pet is a happy pet.

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